Hout Bay Market

Nestled in an old fish factory, positioned right in the bay near the harbour where one can watch and enjoy the entry and exit of boats on the water, this is the perfect way to begin a weekend after a long week on campus or in the office! On walking into the market the smell of incense, freshly baked bread and aromatic food rises in your nose, and the humming of voices sounds in your ears. The array of stalls is endless displaying colourful paintings, vintage artwork and beadwork for the art enthusiast.

The atmosphere is staggering. Known as Cape Town’s most vibrant and happening market you can feel the “vibe” and excitement as you wonder from stall to stall. Yet people are too very laid back and relaxed with family units sitting opposite long tables enjoying the appetizing and fragrant food available from the plentiful food stands. The choices are never-ending from an organic/health bar, freshly braaied fish, seafood paella and sweet treats tempting all drifting patrons.

Being a caffeine addict I spotted the “best ever coffee” stall right near the food court! Walking around sipping on one of the best iced coffee frappes I tasted to date, and discussing the range of different boutique clothing stalls and hand-crafted goodies to take home with you- our evening was great! There is also a bar with “beer on tap” as well as vases of red and white wines available to warm up with on a cold winters evening.

Open for most of the weekend (from 17:00- 21:00 on Friday evenings as well as Saturday and Sunday from 09:30-16:00) everyone needs to go and immerse themselves in what Hout Bay market has to offer! With live music resonating through your ears, the inviting and accommodating traders bartering with patrons, the incredible views of Chapman’s peak as well as the variety of goods you truly feel distinctly and proudly South African!